Welcome to Thriving Together, your go-to source for timely information, resources and support on the autism journey, sponsored by Metro Parent and Henry Ford Health. 

In this newsletter, we share tips for managing aggressive behavior in your child with autism. An expert at Henry Ford Health Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities offers effective strategies and more.

If you know someone who would benefit from receiving this newsletter, please share and encourage them to subscribe. 

Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to subscribe.

7 Ways to Manage Your Child’s Aggressive Behavior

Managing aggressive behavior in children with autism can be challenging for families. "Maladaptive behavior," which includes mild outbursts like tantrums to severe actions like self-harm, varies in intensity. Dr. Jannel Phillips, a clinical neuropsychologist at Henry Ford Health, notes that while aggression isn’t always expected in children with autism, it’s not uncommon.

Want more? Read a longer version (with more tips!)

Key factors to understand include:

• Frustration from communication difficulties is often a primary cause.
• Impulsivity, especially in children with ADHD, can lead to quick, unfiltered reactions.
• Triggers such as unmet needs, changes in routine or sensory issues may contribute to aggressive behaviors.

For managing these behaviors, here are Phillips’ strategies:

1. Assess your own confidence. A parent’s comfort level matters. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to your child’s primary care provider for a referral.
2. Track behavior patterns. Log when and where behaviors happen, noting their frequency, intensity and impact on family life.
3. Observe triggers (antecedents). Note events immediately before outbursts, such as sibling interactions or unmet needs. Keeping a log can reveal patterns that help identify causes.
4. Avoid reinforcing aggressive behaviors. Consistency is key. For instance, giving in to a public tantrum can teach children that such behaviors work.
5. Use prepared scripts and incentives. Before challenging situations, remind your child of expected behavior. Small rewards for meeting expectations can ease stress for both parent and child.
6. Seek professional support for severe aggression. For damaging or self-harming behaviors, consult a Board Certified Behavior Analyst for expert guidance.
7. Stay calm and reinforce positive behavior. Ignore minor outbursts when possible. Reinforce positive actions extensively, as positive reinforcement helps shape socially appropriate behaviors.

There's more to know! Read more about aggressive behavior in children with atuism at Metro Parent’s Your Top Kids Health Questions — Answered. 

– ADVERTISEMENT –

Expertise from clinical neuropsychologist Jannel Phillips, PhD, with the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities at Henry Ford Health.

In young children: Toddlers with language delays can display disruptive and mildly aggressive behaviors. Take heart: what you see in your child now isn’t necessarily what you’ll see as they grow and develop. Phillips says she has seen considerable improvement over time with children who have intensive ABA and behavioral services.

In middle stages: Continue to model the behavior you want to see in your child. They are watching every interaction. Make a habit of sharing confrontational situations you see at work or in the community and talk about possible resolutions.

In transition to adulthood: Even when teens and young adults aren’t displaying aggressive behavior, they can engage with authorities and law enforcement out in the community. This can have potentially dangerous outcomes, especially for young men of color. “Be proactive and immerse yourself in your child’s community and educational teams,” Phillps says. “Communicate with teachers and be present for the supports your child might need. Also, set the stage early for behavioral and mental health supports.”

…and read more articles that address your top kids health questions!

Resources: organizations, events and more

Autism Alliance of Michigan

Help, hope and answers, including AAoM’s robust MiNavigator, a state-wide resource for families on all issues related to autism. Visit AAoM for its comprehensive calendar of events.
877-463-AAOM

Autism Society of Greater Detroit

Offers peer-to-peer support groups, meet-ups and other resources for parents and families and those with autism.

Bluestone VOICES for Autism

Livonia, Mich. based nonprofit that provides financial and therapeutic support to enhance the lives of children and their families through fundraising events and grantmaking. Funds families of children with autism receiving ABA, speech therapy or occupational therapy in Michigan and individuals pursuing a BCBA degree.

The Family Center

Resource for building connected, resilient families. Provides connections to programs and resources, plus online information for parents and families. Based on Grosse Pointe Farms.
313-447-1374

MiABLE

Michigan’s flexible 529 savings account for individuals with disabilities who are eligible for SSI or SSDI.
844-656-7225

Autism Support of Michigan

Educational resources, materials and other services for individuals and families. 

517-882-2800

Early On Michigan

Michigan’s system for families with children birth-3 who have developmental delays or developmental disabilities.
800-327-5966

Michigan Autism Program

Resources and support for families and caregivers, including the Michigan ASD State Plan. 

Create a partnership you can count on

Consider your child’s primary care provider as a top resource for supporting you and your child, especially with regard to aggressive behavior. Share your child’s behavior patterns and triggers with their doctor. They might suggest:

• Setting boundaries
• Encouraging and rewarding good behaviors
• Predictable schedules

— Henry Ford Health Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities

Need More Support?

There's a wealth of knowledge and support available through Henry Ford Health. Learn the latest research regarding autism, discover life-changing outcomes and get expert advice at Henry Ford Health.